Gosford Park is a 2001 film directed by Robert Altman. The film's plot is a dramatic mystery that unfolds at an English country estate in the 1930s during a weekend of hunting, revealing secrets, intrigue, and murder.
Plot
The story takes place in the English countryside in 1932, at the opulent country estate of Gosford Park, owned by the wealthy industrialist Sir William McCordle (played by Michael Gambon) and his wife, Lady Sylvia (played by Kristin Scott Thomas). A diverse group of guests gathers at the estate for a weekend of hunting.
Among the guests are members of the upper class, servants, and working-class relatives. The estate is a microcosm of British society at the time, with hidden social tensions and power dynamics lurking beneath the surface.
During the weekend, a mysterious murder occurs, turning the film into a whodunit mystery. Amateur detective Mr. Probert (played by Stephen Fry) begins to investigate the case, uncovering secrets and suspicions among the guests and staff.
"Gosford Park" explores themes of social class, hidden secrets, betrayals, and rivalries while gradually revealing the complexity of relationships among the characters. The film is known for its exceptional ensemble cast, including actors like Maggie Smith, Helen Mirren, and many others.
Director: Robert Altman
Writer: Julian Fellowes
Producers: Robert Altman, Bob Balaban, David Levy
Music: Patrick Doyle
Main Cast:
Maggie Smith as Constance, Countess of Trentham
Michael Gambon as Sir William McCordle
Kristin Scott Thomas as Sylvia McCordle
Clive Owen as Robert Parks
Helen Mirren as Mrs. Wilson
Emily Watson as Elsie
Major Awards:
The film received positive reviews from critics and was nominated for seven Oscars, winning one for Best Original Screenplay.
Box Office Gross: The film grossed approximately $87 million worldwide.
Critical Reception: Gosford Park received positive reviews from critics. The film was praised for its exceptional ensemble cast and intricate plot. Robert Altman's direction was appreciated for his ability to manage a large ensemble of characters in a British country house setting in 1932. The film is a dark comedy that explores class dynamics and secrets within an aristocratic family and their staff. Julian Fellowes won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for the film. Overall, Gosford Park was considered a critical and commercial success.